Hey long jetty - I was wondering where you wandered off to! Glad you're back, and had an LD, no less! Nice job!

Where were you were you realized you were dreaming? Were you already in your room? I try not to close my eyes in an LD because it always results in me waking up or losing lucidity. Once I realize I'm dreaming, I lean up against a wall and take a few breaths to calm down. Then when I feel calm and stable enough, I'll pursue the activity of my choice!

But it's all about practice. You're experience with taking a break for a couple weeks is a good example about how trying too hard can be counterproductive. Just try to be more aware of things in general and don't overdo it.